YORKSHIRE’S ECONOMIC outlook could get a major boost as part of a government-led initiative arriving in Leeds this month aimed at getting local companies involved in supplying a new generation of nuclear power stations.
The SC@nuclear event at the Royal Armouries on 19-20 May will be an interactive two-day opportunity for Yorkshire firms to find out more about how to get involved in what could be a multi-billion pound supply chain for new nuclear.
The event, coordinated by the Nuclear Industry Association (NIA), will give manufacturing and engineering companies not currently involved in nuclear, or those wishing to return to the industry, a chance to understand quality and accreditation requirements for nuclear – and to meet the key decision-makers.
Although there are currently many world-class British companies involved in nuclear, a new-build programme in the UK, which could see up to 10 new nuclear power stations constructed would need a much larger supply chain.
Keith Parker, chief executive of the NIA said the new build programme for nuclear presented “a golden opportunity” for Yorkshire firms – and Yorkshire workers.
“The SC@nuclear workshops will be touring regions of the UK over the next few months. The aim at Leeds is to put companies in the North of England in touch with key nuclear experts and allow those companies to find out more about how to get involved, and what support will be available to them.”
He added: “Building a new fleet of reactors in the UK will generate billions of pounds worth of business and potentially create thousands of jobs. We want to see British companies getting the lion’s share.”
The event will feature presentations, interactive sessions on quality accreditation and other requirements, and there will be opportunities for “one-to-one” dialogue with key nuclear procurement specialists.
Energy Minster Mike O’Brien is backing the event and calling for Yorkshire companies to get involved.
He said: “These supply chain events are important because it will help British business be first off the blocks in the global supply chain race. They have the potential to help secure billions of pounds for the wider UK economy.”
The two-day event is being supported by three northern Regional Development Agencies (RDAs), Yorkshire Forward, One North-East and the NWDA. Only companies in these regions can attend and places are strictly limited to 100 delegates on each day – with only two people from individual companies allowed. Firms will only be allowed to visit on one of the days.
Places can be booked by calling Stephanie Longland at the NIA on 0207 766 6642.
